We could not wait to return to this beautiful courtyard under the stars for more Jazz. This year the Hawaii State Art Museum included in their program, some Gospel music and poetry reading. We arrived early to get good seats. Al Harrington again was the Emcee. The entertainment line up included: Returning Jazz vocalists Ginai and Starr Kalahiki, the Chuck James Trio Band, new guests Sherry Graham and Chris Vandercook, and poetry by Kathryn Takara.
The Chuck James Trio Band played 'Take the A Train' and 'Cantaloupe Island'. Members of the band included: Chuck James - drums, Aaron Aranita - keyboards and saxophone, and John Kolivas - standup bass. Chris Vandercook joined them on this guitar and sang 'Feels Like Rain' and 'Shoe On The Other Foot'.
Ginai opened with a 1950s song by Horace Silva called 'Doodling'. This was the first time we ever heard the words to one of our favorite the songs called 'A Song For My Father'
Starr opened with 'Its A New Day' in her sparkling dress, she also sang 'Star Dust' a song she learned when she was age 11.
Kathryn recited original poetry from her book 'New & Collective' call 'Your Sax' and 'Life's Not So Great', and 'Talking Hips".
Sherry a native of Mobile Alabama and a 2014 Na Hoku Hano Hano finalist sang 'All Of Me', and At Last'. She closed the evening with everyone singing along to 'Amazing Grace'.
Also spotted in the crowd: Media columnist John Berger, Local Artist John Nichols, Charmaine of Red Eye Connections, and avid ballroom dancers Richard and Sara.
Congratulations to Hawaii State Art Museum for another successful Jazz & Gospel festival. Mahalo to all the entertainers and hands that put this event together. We'll be back for the next one. Till then --- Don't Stop The Music!
Chuck James Trio
Ginai Hill
Chris Vandercook
Starr Kalahiki
Cherry Graham
